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South Cary

South Cary

5.0
$505,242 Average Value
$293 Average Price per Sq Ft
90 Homes For Sale

Convenience and charm collide

A bit farther out than some of other nearby suburban neighborhoods in Cary and the Raleigh-Durham area in general, South Cary offers a lifestyle that’s a bit quieter thanks to its small-town charm—while still providing residents with access to the hustle and bustle of its metropolitan neighbors. The town of Cary overall is one of the most popular suburbs not just in the Triangle area, but in North Carolina at large. “The area has exploded in popularity recently,” says Scott Korbin, Broker at Compass Commercial and longtime resident of Cary. “You have access to a ton, and there’s even more coming.” Thanks to its mix of convenience, community, and natural beauty, South Cary represents an appealing choice for those looking to be close—but not too close—to all the action.

Downtown Cary has a nice mix of local shops and restaurants.
Downtown Cary has a nice mix of local shops and restaurants.
South Cary residents appreciate murals in Downtown Cary.
South Cary residents appreciate murals in Downtown Cary.
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Classic styles reign supreme

Homes in South Cary are generally more established than in other nearby neighborhoods, especially North Cary, reflecting a classic suburban charm to them. A walk down a South Cary street reveals many ranch styles shaded by mature trees and sitting on large lots with sizable yards. Colonial revivals are also a common sight, with these structures further lending the area a vintage appeal. Established 3-bedroom homes typically range in price from $280,000 to $725,000. Though not necessarily common, newer homes can be found in areas like Chandler Cove, which features modern contemporary and new traditional styles. MacGregor Downs features more new construction, mostly in the form of large estate homes situated near the golf course and lake. These larger, newer homes tend to go from $850,000 to $1.5 million. “The prices in Cary reflect the change that’s happening right now,” says Korbin. “But South Cary is still a bit better when it comes to pricing.”

Scattered throughout West Cary are a few renovated Victorian Houses.
Scattered throughout West Cary are a few renovated Victorian Houses.
South Cary residents take pride in their well-kept lawns and property.
South Cary residents take pride in their well-kept lawns and property.
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Downtown Cary has renowned local spots

Though close to larger cities like Raleigh and Durham, Cary is well-known for its own downtown area—something that residents of South Cary will appreciate being so close to. Residents can start their days at local favorite Esteemed Coffee, before heading to Chatham Street later that evening for some of the best restaurants and breweries in the area. Sidebar is one such example that serves up classy cocktails, while Bond Brothers Beer Company was lauded as the top new brewery in the United States back in 2017. For another local staple and some classic southern cuisine, residents can check out Lucky 32 Kitchen. Retail shopping needs are met at Crossroads Plaza with its numerous big box stores, and groceries can be purchased at Waverly Place’s Whole Foods Market.

South Cary residents flock to Esteamed Coffee for their morning treats.
South Cary residents flock to Esteamed Coffee for their morning treats.
Downtown Cary is full of local shops and galleries.
Downtown Cary is full of local shops and galleries.
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Over 200,000 flock to the annual Chinese Lantern Festival

Drawing over 200,000 visitors annually, the biggest community event in Cary is the annual Chinese Lantern Fest held in the Koka Booth Amphitheater. A self-guided walk through stunning works of art, each glowing lantern was handcrafted by more than 25 Chinese artisans, and is a great way for the community to celebrate history and bring in the new year. Koka Booth Amphitheater hosts a variety of other events throughout the year as well, such as concerts, plays, and other regional festivals.

Cary High School prioritizes preparedness

Students in South Cary start their education at Briarcliff Elementary School, before moving on to East Cary Middle School and finishing up at Cary High School—schools that, according to Niche, all earned scores of A-minus. Cary High School is committed to offering a wide variety of extracurricular activities and clubs, while also prioritizing career readiness—offering internships and shadowing programs that prepare students for the evolving job market.

Cary High School
Cary High School
The Briarcliff Elementary School serves young kids grades PreK-5 in the South Cary neighborhood.
The Briarcliff Elementary School serves young kids grades PreK-5 in the South Cary neighborhood.
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Hemlock Bluffs features trees and trails

With over 80 miles of interconnected greenway trails throughout the area, Cary is an excellent choice for those looking to appreciate North Carolina’s natural beauty. South Cary is especially ideal for outdoor activities, with Hemlock Bluffs serving as the neighborhood’s go-to green space. True to its name, Hemlock Bluffs features over 200 beautiful hemlock trees. The area is extremely walkable, having earned a silver-level community by the national program WalkFriendly. Trails like the Hinshaw Greenway link South Cary neighborhoods with paved trails perfect for walking or biking.

South Cary residents enjoy old growth forests in Hemlock Bluffs Park.
South Cary residents enjoy old growth forests in Hemlock Bluffs Park.
South Cary is home to over 80 miles of Greenway trails.
South Cary is home to over 80 miles of Greenway trails.
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The Triangle Expressway makes communiting form South Cary more feasible.
The Triangle Expressway makes communiting form South Cary more feasible.

Urban access with peace and quiet

The renowned Research Triangle Park business hub is nearby, and has played a large role in Cary’s expanding population over the past 25 years. Companies like IBM, Epic Games, and Ford Motors all have offices in the Research Triangle, making the hub a huge source of employment. “South Cary adds a little bit to your commute,” says Korbin. “But it gives you access to more nature, and you still aren’t all that far from things like the Research Triangle.” At only 20 miles from Durham and just 15 from Raleigh, the area is excellent for commuters of any kind.

Gerald Withers
Written By
Gerald Withers
Bryan Regan
Photography Contributed By
Bryan Regan
EB Fox
Video By
EB Fox

Agents Specializing in this Area

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Schools

Source:
GreatSchools: The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process. View GreatSchools Rating Methodology

Parks in this Area

Transit

Airport

Raleigh-Durham International

20 min drive

Train

Cary Station

Bus

333 James Jackson Avenue Ib

Bus

Kildaire Farm Rd & High Meadow Dr (Ob)

Bus

Tryon Rd & Wakemed Cary Hospital

Bus

SE Maynard Rd & Reed St

Bus

Chatham St & Wakemed Soccer Park (Wb)

Bus

James Jackson Avenue & Maynard Road Ob

Bus

E Chatham St & Hunter St

Reviews

Homes.com Reviews
5.0 1 Review
5.0 Familiar With Area
12/2/2025 Homes.com Review
Property values are much higher withing walking distance to the charming downtown district in Cary. The downtown area has an incredible vibe and is competing with the most desirable areas in the Triangle Metro Market.
Are you familiar with the South Cary neighborhood? to let others know what life in this neighborhood is like.

Crime and Safety

1 - Low Crime, 10 - High Crime South Cary US
Homicide 3 4
Sexual Assault 4 4
Assault with Weapon 4 4
Robbery 3 4
Burglary 4 4
Motor Vehicle Theft 4 4
Larceny 4 4
Crime Score 4 4

Source: WhatIsMyCrimeRisk.com

Neighborhood Facts

Number of Homes
9,351
Number of Homes for Sale
90
Median Year Built
1980
Months of Supply
2.40
Average Single Family Home Size Sq Ft
2,513
Above the national average
1,931
Average Townhouse Size Sq Ft
1,952
Average 2 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
1,456
Average 1 Bedroom Size Sq Ft
962
Median Lot Size Sq Ft
8,276

Open Houses

  • Saturday, May 9
    1 - 3pm

    407 Chatham View Rd, Cary, NC 27511

    $692,000

    • 3 Beds
    • 3.5 Baths
    • 1,656 Sq Ft
    • 407 Chatham View Rd

    New Construction situated in the heart of downtown Cary, the Chelsea Plan offers approximately 1656 square feet of thoughtfully designed spaces with modern architectural themes, and sky-room balcony. Direct access to the attached two-car garage enhances daily convenience, and leads to a custom drop zone upon entry into the first level. The main living level is designed for seamless entertaining

    Agent Photo
    Sonya Jeffrey
    Edge Real Estate Company, LLC
    (984) 253-8985
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  • Saturday, May 9
    1 - 4pm

    407 Waldo St, Cary, NC 27511

    $1,795,000

    • 5 Beds
    • 5.5 Baths
    • 4,097 Sq Ft
    • 407 Waldo St

    Welcome to modern luxury in the heart of Downtown Cary - now move-in-ready. 407 Waldo is a fully custom 3-story residence by award-winning Reward Builders offering 5 bedrooms, 5.5 baths, and 4,097 sq ft of indulgent design, just steps from Downtown Cary Park. Outside, striking architecture, curated landscaping and modern lighting set the tone. Inside, the open main level blends a chef's kitchen

    Agent Photo
    Johnny Chappell
    Compass -- Raleigh
    (919) 891-8218
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  • Sunday, May 10
    12 - 2pm

    601 Ellynn Dr, Cary, NC 27511

    $799,999

    • 4 Beds
    • 2.5 Baths
    • 2,828 Sq Ft
    • 601 Ellynn Dr
    • New 6 days ago

    Welcome to this stunning colonial-style home located right here in the heart of Cary!This beautiful 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath home sits on a spacious corner lot with .35 acres, giving you both privacy and room to enjoy.As you arrive, you'll immediately notice the charming curb appeal and well-maintained landscaping that truly sets this home apart.Step inside and you're greeted with timeless

    Marjorie Miranda Real Broker, LLC - Carolina Collective Realty

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Distribution of Home Values

Source: Public Records

Homes for Sale

Homes for Rent

Average Home Value





Source: Public Records

Property Mix - Square Feet

This Neighborhood Has More Owners

Rental Home Trends

Number of Homes for Rent
42
Median Rent
$1,772
Median Single Family Home Rent
$1,850
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$2,295
Median Townhouse Rent
$1,600
Median 3 Bedroom Townhouse Rent
$1,885
Median Condo Rent
$2,008
Median 2 Bedroom Condo Rent
$1,550

Demographics

Total Population
31,010
Median Age
43
Population Density
5 ppl/acre
Population under 18
21.5%
On par with the national average
23.8%
Population over 65
22.6%
On par with the national average
19.1%

Finances

Median Household Income
$87,138
Above the national average
$79,597
Average Household Income
$109,881

Education and Workforce

High School Graduates
92.6%
College Graduates
54.3%
Above the national average
34.1%
Advanced Degrees
21.1%
Above the national average
13.3%
% Population in Labor Force
68.4%

Weather

Annual Precipitation
46''
Average Winter Low Temperature
32°F
Average Summer High Temperature
90°F
Annual Snowfall
3''

Area Factors

Fairly friendly

Bike Score®

50 / 100

Moderately friendly

Walk Score®

60 / 100

Not friendly

Transit Score®

10 / 100
Source: Local Logic
Sources: Local Logic

Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.

Nearby Neighborhoods

Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
NEIGHBORHOOD
South Cary